Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 371 of 2368
The nurse receives a specimen cup from a client who was asked to provide a sputum sample. Which finding indicates the specimen is acceptable sputum rather than saliva?
- Thin, clear, and watery appearance
- Volume of less than 1 mL
- Thick and opaque appearance
- Frothy bubbles on the surface only
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Correct answer: Thick and opaque appearance
Sputum is thick and opaque, while saliva is thin, clear, and watery. The sample should also be at least 5 mL.
Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Specimen Collection: SPUTUM SPECIMEN COLLECTION. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026